In a groundbreaking move, Goa has emerged as the first state in the nation to offer the Pertuzumab-Trastuzumab combination to breast cancer patients in hospitals completely free.
Pertuzumab-trastuzumab (Phesgo), a potent fixed drug combination designed for HER2-positive breast cancer. In India, a single dose of Phesgo costs approximately ₹2.1 lakh.
HER2-positive breast cancer denotes a subtype characterised by the overexpression or amplification of a protein known as HER2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor 2).
Biologic drugs, such as monoclonal antibodies like Phesgo, are more complex to manufacture than traditional chemical-based drugs, adding to production expenses.
Dr Dr Nitin Yashas, a Hemato-Oncologist highlighted, “By the addition of Pertuzumab, we are able to achieve a dual HER2 blockade leading to better response and better survival.”
“When we give this combination along with chemotherapy for typically six cycles before surgery and then operate, there is excellent reduction of the tumour.”